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MRS. BROWN.

Yes; deuce take her generosity! kisses and sweet words are cheaper than shawls.

MISS FRANKLAND.

I guessed as much; the mint of money won't come from that quarter—Let us move a little to this corner, if you please. (Leads Mrs. Brown away from the sofa, more to the front.) What do you know of the man who brought him to England—this Manhaunslet? Do you think he is really his father?

MRS. BROWN.

He says he is.

MISS FRANKLAND.

Does he behave to him as if he were?

MRS. BROWN.

He behaves to him as well as some fathers do to their children; and that is indifferent enough.

MISS FRANKLAND.

Poor boy! indifferent enough, I fear.

MRS. BROWN.

He had a monkey, when he first came, that danced on its hind legs, and played quarter-staff and them tricks; and I never knew which of them he liked best, Hugho or the ape: he gave them the same food, the same kind of fondling, and the same education.